5 helpful resources for AMD patients and caregivers

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss among older adults in the United States. AMD causes central vision loss. When this happens, the center of a person’s vision becomes blurred and may also develop blank spots, while the outer edges of the vision remain clear. While AMD does not cause complete blindness, it can result in legal blindness.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with AMD, the following sites may help you learn more about the disease and the resources available to assist people who are affected by AMD.

American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)

The AAO has information on a wide variety of eye conditions and is a great starting point if you are expanding your research on AMD. Videos and animations offer a detailed look at the anatomy of the eyes and simulate the vision loss caused by AMD. There is also an Ask an Ophthalmologist section, where you can browse previous answers or submit your own. The search tool can help you find eye-care providers in your area.

BrightFocus

Formerly known as the American Health Assistance Foundation (AHAF), BrightFocus is a nonprofit organization that funds scientific research in diseases that affect the brain and eyes, including Alzheimer’s disease, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Their website features pages of useful information for people affected by AMD, including suggested questions to ask when talking to a healthcare provider about AMD and a page on financial aid for macular degeneration medications. There’s also a page featuring tips for caregivers of loved ones with AMD.

AMDF

The American Macular Degeneration Foundation (AMDF) is another nonprofit, dedicated to preventing, treating, and curing AMD. Their website is an excellent source of patient education information, with pages on the anatomy of the eye, treatments, nutrition, questions to ask a healthcare provider about AMD, and information about the state of research into the condition. There is also a guide to finding an eye specialist.

EyeCare America

Health care can be expensive. If you are struggling to pay for an eye exam, EyeCare America is a program created by AAO that connects qualified patients with volunteer ophthalmologists to provide no-cost eye exams. Visit their patients page to see if you qualify.

VisionAware

Central vision loss can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as reading, driving, and preparing meals. VisionAware catalogs practical strategies, products, and services for maintaining independence while living with vision loss. You’ll find pages on everything from modifications to make to your kitchen to assistive technologies to advice on talking to your employer about your vision loss and knowing your rights in the workplace.